Ross, 35, hit .256 with nine homers, 23 RBIs and a .321 on-base percentage in 62 games for the Atlanta Braves in the 2012 season while serving as Brian McCann's backup.

In his 11-season major league career, Ross is a .238 hitter with 84 homers, 248 RBIs and a .324 on-base percentage.

The deal could be the precursor to another move by the Red Sox, who already have catchers Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Ryan Lavarnway on their roster. Saltalamacchia hit a career-high 25 homers this past season and could be used as a trade chip by Boston to fill another need.